Treasurer Scott Morrison has handed down his first Federal Budget – the Coalition Government’s third. The winners are low and middle income earners, unemployed youth and small business, and there are significant changes to superannuation.

Note: These changes are proposals only and may or may not be made law.

Summary

• A lifetime cap on non-concessional (after-tax) superannuation contributions of $500,000 will apply from 7.30pm on 3 May 2016.
• The income tax threshold at which the 37% tax applies will increase to $87,000 pa on 1 July 2016, from the current $80,000 pa.
• The tax rate that applies to small business companies will reduce to 27.5% for businesses with a turnover up to $10 million in 2016/17. Further tax concessions will apply in future financial years.

A range of superannuation measures will also apply from 1 July 2017.

• The annual cap on concessional (pre-tax) super contributions will reduce to $25,000, regardless of age.
• Concessional super contributions may exceed the annual cap if certain conditions are met.
• Those aged between 65 and 74 will be able to make super contributions regardless of whether they work or not.
• Tax deductions will be able to be claimed for personal contributions regardless of employment status.
• A lifetime limit of $1.6m will be placed on the amount of superannuation that can be transferred to start pensions.
• Earnings on investments held in ‘transition to retirement’ pensions will be taxed at 15% (currently 0%).

If you’d like to read more, click here: FPA Budget Wrap 2016